What to look for.

We weren't a bookish family by any means at all. The only books I remembered seeing at home were the Rupert Annuals which appeared each Christmas. But - bless her - my mum took me down and I joined the library.

I remember a quiet atmosphere and - of course - ranks and ranks of books. I didn't have a clue where to begin. I dimly remember an ancient librarian (probably late 30s) asking me what I was interested in. "Nature" I answered.

She kindly showed me to a set of shelves, and I was left to it. As far as I remember, I chose a book with lots of pictures. The text was largely invisible to me.

I have grown to value libraries immensely. They continue to be a source of ideas and personal flourishing. I always loved the University Libraries I came to know. But local libraries are special. They ought to have died a death under the weight of new media and so on. But they haven't. Instead, they have continually re-invented themselves to meet the needs of new generations. My local Library - Worthing - has made itself a hub within the community, and I enjoy my frequent visits.

And for me personally - rather like telling the time and tying my shoelaces - it started with my mum.